By Rachael Grealish

Two men have been arrested today in the Republic of Ireland in connection with the death of Carlisle man Ryan Kirkpatrick.

The men, both from the north Cumbria area, were arrested as part of the ongoing investigation launched following Ryan’s death on September 18.

Officers were called to the city centre at 8.48pm on Saturday, following a report that a man had been stabbed.

Despite the best efforts of first responders and medical staff, Ryan was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The men were arrested in ROI on Tuesday September 28 and remain in custody that afternoon.

Detective Chief Superintendent Dean Holden called these arrests a ‘significant development’ and said police are still appealing for witnesses to come forward.

He said: “This is a significant development in our investigation.

“In order for us not to compromise legal proceedings the names of those arrested will not be released at this time – and we would urge the public not to speculate on social media.

“We continue to encourage anyone with information regarding the death of Mr Kirkpatrick to come forward.

“We believe there are still people out there who can help who have yet to make themselves known.”

Anyone with information can submit this here:  https://mipp.police.uk/operation/0301020118N53-PO1

You can also call 101.

Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers, completely anonymously, on 0800 555 111.